Noni Madueke faces fitness race for Sporting clash

Noni Madueke is facing a race against time to be fit for Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP after suffering a knee injury on international duty with England.

The winger picked up the problem in the 1–1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley, going down in the 38th minute following a collision with Rodrigo Aguirre and eventually having to leave the pitch limping.

Concerns increased when Madueke was later seen wearing a brace on his left knee as he passed through the mixed zone, sparking fears of a serious setback. However, early assessments are cautiously encouraging, with indications suggesting the issue is relatively minor.

Even so, the 24-year-old is expected to miss the upcoming FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton and is regarded as a major doubt for the first leg against Sporting on April 7. Arsenal’s medical team will continue to monitor his progress over the coming days before any final decision is taken.

Madueke has become an important part of Arsenal’s squad in his debut season after joining from Chelsea last summer, making 31 appearances in all competitions and contributing seven goals and three assists so far.